Finals week often renders us weak, down-trodden, worried, and doubtful, as do most great projects and commitments in life. But these are the times we must see and seize as opportunities. They test us to see if we have the dedication, work ethic, and desire to do what it takes. Not everyone gets an education, a chance to learn about the world through an academic institution, but we do, and to resent this power would be detrimental.
1. Lin Manuel-Miranda
“I’ve been worried about legacy since I was a kid. We have this amount of time, it’s the tiniest grain of sand of time we’re allowed on this Earth to be alive. And what do we leave behind and how much—and we’re not even promised a day. So what can we do in the time we're given?”
Whenever I am feeling down-trodden or uninspired, I look to my savior, Lin-Manuel Miranda. He epitomizes what it means to be a hard-worker—and he manages this whilst still remaining his dorky, lovable, and kind self. Talent and compassion rolled into one non-stop force of nature. So, remember that your dedication and hard work can impact the world.
For more insight from the founding father of captivating cross-overs between musical theatre and hip hop, check out his Twitter feed.
2. Mahatma Gandhi
“Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.”
This may seem a paradoxical statement within the context of studying for finals. Is studying really tantamount to living? Not necessarily. You could be skydiving, or better yet, spending time with family and friends. But as the parable goes, Knowledge is power. And learning will prove a great foundation for future events, and help feed your hungry mind and soul.
3. Ralph Waldo Emerson
“Without ambition one starts nothing. Without work one finishes nothing. The prize will not be sent to you. You have to win it.”
Possibly one of the most difficult pieces of advice to follow. It is so tempting and simple to succumb to unproductive lifestyles, and fall into self-pitying behaviors. But those who rise above this instinctual response lead happier lives and leave legacies.
4. George Bernard Shaw
“I don't believe in circumstances. The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want, and if they can't find them, make them.”
That ‘A’ that you want? Earn it.
No questions, just actions.
5. Eleanor Roosevelt
“You have to accept whatever comes, and the only important thing is that you meet it with the best you have to give.”
On the softer side, be assertive in the pursuit of your studies, and later, your dreams, but accept failures and rejections as gracefully as successes and achievements. Do not limit yourself with negative thoughts. Your best is the best.
6. Tina Fey
“You can’t be that kid standing at the top of the water slide overthinking it. You have to go down the chute.”
Nobody likes that kid—he holds up the line. Take risks. You never know, you may end up having fun on the way down. Stop staring finals (and life and dreams and love) in the face and just give it a try. Don’t throw away your shot.
